Kawasan Falls remains closed

CEBU, Philippines - Provincial Engineer Adolfo Quiroga said they got rid of the ripraps obstructing the riverflow at Kawasan falls in Badian, but Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia ordered for the restoration of the natural scenery at the falls before it is opened again for tourists.

This shall be done, he said, by imitating the image of the mini-hydro plant constructed a few meters from the main falls.

Garcia yesterday met with Quiroga, Badian Mayor Robburt Librando and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on the update of the demolition of the illegal structures at the falls.

The Provincial Engineering Office started the demolition in April 16 and has destroyed the cottages owned by Willy Saldua. Quiroga revisited the site last Saturday to inspect the clearing operation.

This was when Gov. Garcia made the recent decision to continue the closure of the falls to make way for its restoration, Quiroga said.

Provincial Legal Officer Marino Martinquilla, meanwhile, said that Garcia, representing the Province of Cebu, has not yet pushed through with the filing of charges against Saldua and the owners of the rest of the illegal structures built around the falls. —(FREEMAN)